The Aboriginal population of Victoria

The basis of epidemiological studies and of health services planning is accurate enumeration of the population at risk. With regard to the Aboriginal population of Victoria there was reason to believe that official census statistics were inaccurate. Interviews were carried out with representatives of Aboriginal organizations, State and federal government departments concerned with Aboriginal affairs and other interested individuals. The best estimate of the Aboriginal population of Victoria arrived at by this method was almost double the census figure. Underestimation was most marked in rural areas.